Surviving the Texas Ice Storm: Tips & Downtown Resources

Texas isn’t exactly known for snow, but this weekend we’re about to get a taste of true winter. Expect a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet, and maybe even a dusting of snow. Temperatures are dropping fast, winds are brisk, and streets could be slippery.

Whether you’re a resident or business owner, here are all the resources you need to stay prepared.

Weather Watch

The weekend forecast is calling for a mix of rain, freezing rain, sleet, and snow. Streets could be slick, temperatures are dropping, and winds will be brisk.

And if you’ve peeked at the grocery store lately, you’ve probably noticed the shelves looking a little… bare. People are stocking up like it’s the apocalypse- so grab your essentials sooner rather than later.

And for those venturing out… slow down, watch for icy patches, and don’t fight other shoppers for the last loaf of bread.

Quick Winter Prep Tips

Even in Texas, a little prep goes a long way:

• Drip your faucets: A small drip overnight helps prevent pipes from freezing.
• Keep a little heat in the house: Don’t turn the thermostat all the way down if you’ll be gone.
• Protect outdoor plants: Move potted plants inside or cover them if they’re sensitive.
• Check your car: Make sure windshield washer fluid isn’t frozen, keep an ice scraper handy, and fill your gas tank at least halfway to avoid gas line freeze-ups.
• Stock an emergency kit: Flashlight, batteries, bottled water, snacks, and blankets.

Weekend Lock-In Ideas:

• Warm Up the Kitchen: Try a new soup, chili, or bake some fresh cookies. 
• Crafts & Hobbies: Knitting, DIY projects, or journaling. Perfect for tackling all those little projects you’ve been meaning to start! Pro tip: get ahead on Valentine's Day crafts!
• Movies & Games: Movie marathons, board games, or puzzles will keep your cabin fever at bay.
• Connect with Loved Ones: Call or video chat with friends, or spend quality time with family. 

Practical Tips for Residents

• Avoid driving on icy roads whenever possible. If you must, go slow and leave extra space.
• Stock up on essentials: food, water, medications, just the basics.
• Keep flashlights, batteries, and phone chargers handy in case of outages.

Practical Tips for Downtown Businesses
Winter weather is coming, so keep an eye on the forecast and prioritize safety for your employees and customers. Sidewalks and entrances should be salted or sanded, and if your staff can work remotely, make sure they have everything they need to stay productive.

Trash pickups may be delayed, so plan accordingly. Update your website, social media, or Google listings if hours change. 

This weekend will probably be slow downtown- icy roads and snow aren’t exactly foot-traffic friendly. Use this time to prep for next week: check inventory, schedule your staff, and get ready to welcome everyone back once the streets are clear.

Help Your Community
While you’re stocking up for the storm, remember there are people in our community without a warm place to go. The City of Arlington is working closely with The Salvation Army, First United Methodist Church of Arlington, and Nations Church Arlington to make sure our homeless community have a safe, warm place to stay through the weekend.

If you or someone you know needs a warm place this weekend, check out Arlington Warming Shelters.

Official City Resources 

The City of Arlington is already preparing for the ice. Public Works crews are pre-treating roads with salt brine and monitoring priority areas like bridges, underpasses, and hospital entrances.

Keep up to date with the City of Arlington’s Severe Weather Resources for more updates.  

Look Forward to Next Week

Once the ice melts, don’t forget your favorite Downtown Arlington spots! Grab a coffee, browse for a new outfit, or simply enjoy a walk with a friend once the streets are cleared again. 

Even during Snowmageddon, there are plenty of ways to stay safe, warm, and entertained. 

We’ll see you next week, once everything opens up again!